Family Services

06/10/2026

Take a look at the new and exciting upcoming events with Ulster Prevention Council this month! From educational workshops to Positive Action, there are so many ways to get involved, learn, and connect.

06/09/2026

The Family Services community came together recently to recognize the legacy of Margaret Calista. A cherished and long-time Board Member of Family Services, we are so grateful to plant this tree in front of the Family Partnership Center in her memory.

Margaret had an unflagging sense of purpose and a genuine belief in the power of community to create meaningful change. Throughout her career, she held several positions at nonprofits and rose to become Dean of the School of Social and Behavioral Sciences at Marist University.

Serving on our board for decades, she was always the first to step up when asked and cared deeply about youth and families. Her entire career was built around helping those who needed it most. We are profoundly grateful for Margaret's vision and lasting contributions, which will forever impact Family Services. She leaves a legacy that will continue to be felt through the lives of everyone she valued so deeply.

05/05/2026

This May, we’re starting right here in Poughkeepsie 💚

Every wash at our Poughkeepsie location = $1 donated for Mental Health Awareness Month we have teamed up with Family Services

Neighbors Helping Neighbors

This community shows up. And we’re giving that right back.

Pull in. Get clean. Give back.

Let’s see how much Poughkeepsie can raise together

04/28/2026

During April, we recognize National Child Abuse Prevention Month by taking part in the Pinwheels for Prevention campaign and planting our own Pinwheel Garden.

These pinwheels, which will be on display at the Family Partnership Center along with our OC FEP office for the next week, evoke a sense of playfulness and whimsy that every child deserves to experience. We are so grateful for our team’s dedication to reducing child abuse and neglect in the Hudson Valley.

04/24/2026

In 2025, our SNUG team contributed to a 40% reduction in the total number of shootings in the City of Poughkeepsie. When shootings do occur, we mediate those conflicts to prevent retaliation and offer vital support and resources to those who've been impacted. Yesterday, we joined together alongside community members to reject violence as a norm - because everyone has the right to safe communities.

Follow Poughkeepsie SNUG to stay tuned about upcoming community events.

04/23/2026

Family Services’ Center for Victim Safety and Support hosted the 13th Annual Visions of Hope & Healing Art Show, honoring crime victims and recognizing professionals dedicated to supporting victims’ rights and self-determination.

This year’s event was held in partnership with the 2nd Annual Candlelight Vigil, further strengthening our shared commitment to honoring victims, survivors, and promoting healing within our community.

Congrats to all the awardees!

Missy Demattio, Outreach Worker Dutchess County District Attorney's Office

Ashley Pilla, Senior Probation Officer Dutchess County Office of Probation and Community Corrections

K9 Bear and Handler Sgt. Jeff Cohen, Dutchess County Sheriff's Office

04/22/2026

Please join us today to honor survivors and the community partners who dedicate their work to upholding their rights.

04/19/2026

Here at Family Services, we believe that everyone has the right to safety. The Lethality Assessment Protocol is a critical instrument, ensuring victims of domestic violence are identified by law enforcement and connected to an advocate specialized in high risk cases. We’ve implemented this program in Dutchess County—now, we need to see it across systems statewide.

POUGHKEEPSIE — Dutchess County is setting the standard statewide in efforts to reduce domestic violence, local officials say. The county’s success is largel

12/31/2025

Domestic violence is not just a private concern, but a public safety crisis. In working alongside the Dutchess County District Attorney's Office, we uphold victims' rights to safety and self-determination. Together, we are committed to interrupting the cycle of violence and creating greater safety both within and outside the justice system.

If you or a loved one need support, we are here to listen 24/7. Call our confidential hotline at 845-485-5550.

The following is an opinion letter submitted by Dutchess County District Attorney Anthony Parisi. The views expressed are those of the DA and do not necessarily represent those of Mid-Hudson News. The most recent arrest of the “Community Santa” Frankie Flowers on domestic violence charges has be...

12/31/2025

"If someone hits me, I'm gone."
Abuse does not always equate to physical violence. Disguised as love or concern, the dynamics of coercion and control can begin early on in relationships and make it difficult for victim-survivors to leave even if physical abuse occurs. Learn more about relationship red flags and the importance of early detection from the Director of the Center for Victim Safety and Support at Family Services.

If you or a loved one need support, we are here for you 24/7 - just call our hotline at 845-485-5550. We will help you create a plan for your family's safety, find healing, or connect you with other resources.

The following op-ed piece from Melissa Hardisty, Director of the Family Services Center for Victim Safety and Support, identifies red flags that may signal a growing domestic violence crisis in a relationship. The opinions expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of M...